The search of a new therapeutic agent that could alter the natural history of SCLC would be an important goal to be reached. LBH589 (Panobinostat) is a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor available for intravenous and oral administration. LBH589 could be classified as PAN-DAC inhibitor targeting both histone and non histone proteins and as such it could be suitable for combination with cytotoxics. Three phase I dose escalation studies with both the intravenous and the oral formulation of LBH589, examining various dose schedules of administration have been conducted in advanced solid tumours and haematological malignancies.